How are scammers trying to reach you

Scams often start with a text, call, or an ad or message on social media. So, if you have a phone or you're on social media, chances are you've heard from a scammer recently.

Scammers love sending texts - so much so that last year's fraud reports to the FTC show more people reporting that a scammer contacted them by text than any other way. They often send texts pretending to be businesses or the government (think fake notices about package deliveries, loan applications, or unpaid tolls).

Phone calls are another common way fraudsters reach people. They call to say things like "you've won a prize" or "you need to move your money to protect it." Unfortunately, people reported losing a lot of money to these criminals last year.

But the highest reported losses overall last year came from criminals on social media, pushing things like scammy job offers and investment opportunities - which sometimes started with a romantic connection.

If you get an unexpected text, call, or message on social media, know that it could be a scam designed to steal your money or personal info.

To help you avoid scams:

• Report and delete unwanted texts. Use your phone's "report junk" option or forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM). Then delete the message.
• Report unwanted calls. If you didn't lose any money but want to report a call, visit DoNotCall.gov. If you've lost money to a phone scam or have information about the caller, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• Spot imposters on social media. If you get a job offer on social media, or get promised "guaranteed" returns on investments, stop. Check it out. And learn to spot people using fake profiles to make a connection.